2013-01-16
Decked in Filipiniana ornamentals and trimmings of buri and capiz, and amid the backdrop of a snowy white Christmas, the Philippine Christmas Tree stood out literally and figuratively as it won the 2012 Annual Christmas Tree Decorating Challenge of the Museum of Canadian Civilization (CMC) in Ottawa-Gatineau.
The outcome of the challenge, now on its 3rd year, was announced on 13 January 2013 by the CMC. The CMC congratulated the Philippine Embassy saying that “the Philippine tree was by far the favourite among CMC visitors”. Having won the challenge, the Philippines will be given the honour and opportunity to decorate the 10-foot winner’s tree in next year’s challenge, according to the CMC.
The challenge brought forth the participation from a wide cross-section of Canadian civil society. Museum visitors were invited and delighted, and thousands of Museum visitors were able to enjoy the trees. Whether they came in small groups, families or individually, Museum visitors were enchanted by an initiative that gave them a better understanding of Canada’s diverse communities and the various organizations that work in the National Capital Region.
The CMC further noted the Philippines’ “enthusiasm and generosity” which the museum “greatly appreciated”, and thanked the Embassy’s help in making the event “a wonderful success”.
Philippine participation was made possible by the collaboration of the Philippine Embassy and the Cultural Diplomacy Unit of the DFA, with the Philippine Heritage Foundation of Canada (PHFC) and with the support of TN Philippines, who supplied the trimmings and ornaments.